Billionaire environmental activist Tom Steyer says he's close to a decision on whether he'll run in 2016 for the seat being vacated by
retiring Democratic Sen. Barbara Boxer, another staunch green supporter.
"Holding office is a sacred trust in our society, and I am honored that so many colleagues and friends have encouraged me to consider entering this race," Steyer wrote Tuesday in the
Huffington Post.
"California Democrats are blessed to have a deep bench of talent, and I will decide soon based on what I think is the best way to continue the hard work we have already started together to prevent climate disaster and preserve American prosperity."
The Hill has reported shortly after Boxer announced she'd retire from the Senate in two years, a close ally of Steyer confided he was considering a run, and was reaching out to fellow Democrats to gauge their interest.
But the former hedge fund manager — who ponied up the most of any individual in contributions to last year’s midterm elections,
The Hill reports — didn't hint at which way he's leaning.
"One thing is clear — Washington needs to be shaken up and we need climate champions who will fight for the next generation," the founder of NextGen Climate wrote, though he enthused that Boxer has "advocated for what was right throughout her time in public service — consistently, insistently, and courageously."
Earlier Tuesday, California's Democratic Attorney General Kamala Harris became the
first candidate to announce her intent to run for the seat. Another possible candidate is former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa,
Politico has reported.
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